Latest news with #PAHs
New Indian Express
25-07-2025
- Science
- New Indian Express
NIT-R bags patent for bacterial biofilm tech to treat toxic industrial wastewater
ROURKELA: A research team of the National Institute of Technology-Rourkela (NIT-R) has secured patent for its novel bacterial biofilm technology that degrades phenanthrene, a toxic Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAH) found in industrial chemical waste. Contrary to the conventional methods for wastewater treatment, this technology offers environment friendly, effective and cost-efficient solution. Informing about the grant of patent on Thursday, the NIT-R said PAHs are hazardous organic compounds capable of contaminating soil and water through fossil fuel combustion, industrial discharge and oil spills. The traditional methods used to address this challenge with chemical oxidation or soil excavation are expensive and often generate secondary pollution. But the new technology provides a cheaper alternate to the global challenge of wastewater treatment. The developed biofilm comprises cells attached to the substratum within an extracellular polymeric matrix. The research team grew the biofilm using Luria Bertani broth, a nutrient-rich medium. Lead researcher Prof Surajit Das of the department of Life Science said, 'The biofilm is well-compatible for integration in existing reactors used at municipal and industrial wastewater treatment facilities, especially those dealing with hydrocarbon-based pollutants. Our patented technology also opens opportunities for potential collaboration with the petrochemical industry to promote more sustainable pollution control practices.'
Newsweek
02-07-2025
- Health
- Newsweek
US Preschoolers Exposed to Dozens of Potentially Harmful Chemicals
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. American toddlers are regularly exposed to a vast mix of potentially harmful industrial and consumer chemicals, a new study has cautioned. Researchers from the National Institutes of Health's Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) program, led by the University of California, Davis conducted one of the most extensive investigations to date into the chemical exposure among young children. The study focused on a group of 201 children aged between two and four from four states: California, Georgia, New York and Washington. Two year old drinking from plastic sippy cup. Two year old drinking from plastic sippy cup. Olha Romaniuk They tested for 111 different chemicals and detected 96 in at least five children, uncovering widespread contact with substances commonly found in plastics, personal care products, household dust and air pollution. Exposure to environmental chemicals—including pesticides, flame retardants, plasticizers, parabens, bisphenols and combustion byproducts—has been previously linked to developmental delays, endocrine disruption and rising health issues. Children encounter environmental chemicals through daily activities like eating, drinking, breathing air, and touching surfaces. Deborah H. Bennett, lead author and UC Davis public health professor, emphasized the urgency: "Our study shows that childhood exposure to potentially harmful chemicals is widespread. This is alarming because we know early childhood is a critical window for brain and body development." The study found younger children—particularly two-year-olds—often carried higher levels of these chemicals than their older peers. They also found the children had higher levels of several chemicals than their mothers did during pregnancy. These included two phthalates, bisphenol S and the pesticide biomarkers 3-PBA and trans-DCCA. Minority children also showed elevated concentrations of specific substances such as parabens, phthalates and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)—highlighting persistent disparities in environmental health. Alarmingly, nine compounds identified in toddlers were absent from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), suggesting significant gaps in national chemical monitoring programs. Jiwon Oh, first author and postdoctoral scholar at UC Davis, underlined the need for policy reform: "This new study highlights the urgent need for expanded biomonitoring and stronger regulations to protect children from harmful exposures." Recommendations for parents and caregivers include washing hands frequently, especially before eating, ventilating living spaces and avoiding plastics marked #3, #6 and #7 as they may contain BPA or similar chemicals. Using phthalates and phthalate alternatives used in plastics like toys and food packaging can also reduce exposure. Avoiding parabens commonly used in cosmetics, lotions, shampoos and pharmaceuticals is also advised. The researchers propose long-term biomonitoring across more diverse populations and the inclusion of emerging chemicals in national surveillance. They also call for stricter regulation of chemical use in consumer products and building materials. Early, proactive approaches are crucial for shielding children from invisible environmental threats. Do you have a tip on a health story that Newsweek should be covering? Do you have a question about chemical exposure? Let us know via health@ Reference Oh, J., Buckley, J. P., Kannan, K., Pellizzari, E., Miller, R. L., Bastain, T. M., Dunlop, A. L., Douglas, C., Gilliland, F. D., Herbstman, J. B., Karr, C., Porucznik, C. A., Hertz-Picciotto, I., Morello-Frosch, R., Sathyanarayana, S., Schmidt, R. J., Woodruff, T. J., & Bennett, D. H. (2025). Exposures to Contemporary and Emerging Chemicals among Children Aged 2 to 4 Years in the United States Environmental Influences on the Child Health Outcome (ECHO) Cohort. Environmental Science & Technology.
Daily Record
25-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
The 'deadly' common summer food combo that could quietly increase your cancer risk
A popular food and drink pairing could be raising your risk of cancer without you even realising, the doctor says Cancer is a cruel disease that affects not only the person who has been diagnosed, but everyone around them. Around 36,000 people are diagnosed with cancer in Scotland each year, according to Public Health Scotland. The illness can be caused by lifestyle factors like diet and how much alcohol you drink. And as summer descends, some healthier ways of living can fall by the wayside, perhaps in place of a knees up with friends in the garden. However, Dr Jiri Kubes, a leading oncologist at Proton Therapy Center in Prague, is warning how a popular barbecue food and drink pairing could increase cancer risk – without you even realising. As Brits fire up the grill in the sun this summer, many will be indulging in sizzling sausages, burgers and cold beers - but experts say this classic combo might do more harm than good. Processed meats and alcohol contain problematic chemicals, and are more deadly when consumed together. This is because they may enhance each other's cancer-causing effects, especially when scoffed in the same sitting. Dr Jiri Kubes says the problem lies in how alcohol impacts your body's ability to process harmful compounds. "Processed and chargrilled meats already contain chemicals that have been linked to increased cancer risk - such as nitrates and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)," he explained. "But when you consume alcohol alongside them, it can make it easier for these carcinogens to be absorbed into the bloodstream - it's quite the deadly combination." Dr Kubes says alcohol acts as a kind of 'carrier,' damaging the lining of the mouth, throat and stomach, and making it easier for cancer-causing compounds to take hold. "This is why drinking alcohol and eating processed meat at the same time - like a hot dog with a beer - can be more harmful than either one on its own," he added. What can you eat instead? There's no need to avoid the occasional summer blowout, but Dr Kubes suggests making some smart swaps. "Try grilled fish, veggie skewers or lean meats like chicken instead of heavily processed sausages or burgers," he said. "Keep your drinking moderate and pair it with fresh salads or wholegrains, which are rich in fibre and antioxidants." It's also important not to over-char food on the grill. "The blackened, burnt bits may taste good, but they're often full of carcinogenic compounds," he went on. "Keep your flame low, and avoid cooking meat until it's crisp or black." "Many people think it's fine to have a few drinks and a burger now and then, but if it's happening frequently over summer, the risks can quietly build up," he cautioned. "Small changes now can have a big impact on your long-term health." Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Analyst Kelly Shi from Jefferies Maintained a Buy Rating on Insmed Incorporated (INSM)
Insmed Incorporated (NASDAQ:INSM) is among the 13 Biotech Stocks with Huge Upside Potential. Kelly Shi of Jefferies has given Insmed Incorporated (NASDAQ:INSM) a buy recommendation, stating that she is confident in the TPIP treatment's impending Phase 2 data for pulmonary arterial hypertension. A biopharmaceutical research team taking notes in front of a laboratory's microscope. Shi anticipates a substantial decrease in pulmonary vascular resistance, the main outcome of the trial, of 20%, which is regarded as a definite success. If the results are encouraging, TPIP may replace Tyvaso, the current standard treatment. On June 4, Wells Fargo reaffirmed its Buy recommendation, with a price objective of $107. Shi points out that TPIP's once-daily dosage is a significant benefit over Tyvaso's four-times-daily schedule, which could increase adherence and make it more appealing to patients as well as physicians. The efficacy potential of TPIP is supported by interim study results that show additional advantages in six-minute walk distance (6MWD). Shi expects significant market penetration in light of these considerations, which could lead to an increase in Insmed Incorporated (NASDAQ:INSM)'s valuation. Both analysts highlight that if future trial results live up to predictions, TPIP has the potential to completely change the way that PAHs are treated. Insmed Incorporated (NASDAQ:INSM) is a biopharmaceutical firm that improves the lives of individuals suffering from serious and rare diseases. While we acknowledge the potential of INSM as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 10 High-Growth EV Stocks to Invest In and 13 Best Car Stocks to Buy in 2025. Disclosure. None. Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Analyst Kelly Shi from Jefferies Maintained a Buy Rating on Insmed Incorporated (INSM)
Insmed Incorporated (NASDAQ:INSM) is among the 13 Biotech Stocks with Huge Upside Potential. Kelly Shi of Jefferies has given Insmed Incorporated (NASDAQ:INSM) a buy recommendation, stating that she is confident in the TPIP treatment's impending Phase 2 data for pulmonary arterial hypertension. A biopharmaceutical research team taking notes in front of a laboratory's microscope. Shi anticipates a substantial decrease in pulmonary vascular resistance, the main outcome of the trial, of 20%, which is regarded as a definite success. If the results are encouraging, TPIP may replace Tyvaso, the current standard treatment. On June 4, Wells Fargo reaffirmed its Buy recommendation, with a price objective of $107. Shi points out that TPIP's once-daily dosage is a significant benefit over Tyvaso's four-times-daily schedule, which could increase adherence and make it more appealing to patients as well as physicians. The efficacy potential of TPIP is supported by interim study results that show additional advantages in six-minute walk distance (6MWD). Shi expects significant market penetration in light of these considerations, which could lead to an increase in Insmed Incorporated (NASDAQ:INSM)'s valuation. Both analysts highlight that if future trial results live up to predictions, TPIP has the potential to completely change the way that PAHs are treated. Insmed Incorporated (NASDAQ:INSM) is a biopharmaceutical firm that improves the lives of individuals suffering from serious and rare diseases. While we acknowledge the potential of INSM as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 10 High-Growth EV Stocks to Invest In and 13 Best Car Stocks to Buy in 2025. Disclosure. None. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
